2 minute read
29 Conservation Office Conservation Office
by Katilvik
This is the first doctor’s house, built in 1929 - Marion LaVigne, Outcrop, 1990
Later Development
Proceed west on the road which runs along the waterfront. In late August, beluga whales often enter into the harbour in front of the community, to feed on marine life or fish. You might spot the whales. Harp seals often can be seen along the Inlet in August, as well. Across the road is the Elders Home Care Centre (32). Across from the Elders Home Care there is a small house on your right where a road branches off to the north. This was the home of the first resident doctor in Chesterfield Inlet (11). This house was built in 1929 for the Federal Department of Health, under the guidance of the Hudson’s Bay Company post chief. It was used as the general headquarters of visiting health officials, and Dr. Livingstone was the first to live there for a few months in 1930. He later returned to Chesterfield Inlet as the permanent doctor in August, 1934. The following September, in the living room of this house, he was married to his fiancé on the day she disembarked from the ship carrying her to Chesterfield Inlet.
A Journey Through Time
On your left is the waterfront area used by residents and local commercial fishermen (12) to anchor their small boats or canoes. Further along the road is the Iqalukpik Fish Plant established in 1979 (13). Here, fish, mainly fresh caught Arctic char, is processed for shipment to the Keewatin Meat and Fish Plant in Rankin Inlet. The commercial fishing season is quite short but you may see the plant in operation from July to late September. If you are interested in purchasing a fresh caught Arctic char at the plant you may contact the local Aqigiq Hunters and Trappers Organization. Behind the fish plant is a small slough known as Dog Lake (dog pond). This is where the RCMP used to tether their dogs (34). The current RCMP detachment is across the road (18). The large new building clearly visible ahead is Victor Sammurtok School (14). It is a school for local students from kindergarten to grade 12. When the school is open, check in at the principal’s office or the District Education Authority office and you may be offered a brief tour of the building.
